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Research and development

More research and development needs to be done to increase and improve the use of Chemical Leasing. It is important to critically reflect on the results achieved and the gaps identified in order to overcome barriers in Chemical Leasing implementation and to better position the model as best environmental practice that is also economically beneficial to companies. Research topics and challenges could include:

From a conceptual perspective, research is needed to more clearly define the scope of Chemical Leasing, and to identify when it stops being a Chemical Leasing service and become another model, such as outsourcing. In addition, the impact on working conditions and market power of the chemicals users’ increased dependency on their suppliers, and the potential for technical and logistical problems, should be examined, particularly if longer-term contracts are signed (see for example Plas, 2008). Empirical research is needed to better overview the market entry of the concept in different sectors. In general, sector-specific approaches and differences in Chemical Leasing implementation are an interesting topic for further study. It would also be interesting to do more research on identifying the skills and competencies required for companies and organisations involved in implementing Chemical Leasing.

From the perspective of context, overlaps with other research streams should be explored in the future. For example, the relationship between Chemical Leasing and green and sustainable chemistry could be further examined, and the characteristics of Chemical Leasing compared to other (innovative) business models applied to chemicals. Also the legal, macroeconomic and political dimensions could be targeted more deeply in new publications on Chemical Leasing. Relevant topics might include economic transaction theory, environmental policy, Chemical Leasing Public Private Partnerships, legal issues in Chemical Leasing contracting, Standards and Norms, quality management, the role of the insurance sector, and the role of other actors (e.g. Chemical Leasing distributors, SME’s, NGO’s or other third parties).

A list of major research contributions on Chemical Leasing is provided below: